How do I get rid of cloudy pool water in an above-ground pool?

A:

Quick Answer

There are many different remedies for cloudy pool water. One remedy, super chlorination, clears cloudy water with a massive dose of sanitizer that breaks up bound chlorine and kills unwanted contaminants. You need a pool test kit and chlorine. This process takes 24 hours.

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Pool water must be circulated and filtered for 24 hours for the shock to work. Take note of the pressure on the intake and outflow gauges of the filter, and backwash the filter if the difference between the gauges is greater than 8.5.

Test your pool to determine its free chlorine and pH levels

Take a water sample from the pool, and test it for total combined free chlorine and pH. A pool pH level between 7.2 and 7.4 is optimal for super chlorination. Amend the water to raise or lower the pH level if needed before the shock.

Mix the chlorine with water, and add it to the pool

Measure the amount of chlorine needed to raise the free chlorine to 10 times its tested level, and pour it into a bucket. Add enough cold water to dissolve the chlorine and stir it until it dissolves. Add the chlorine by pouring it gradually into the filter's return line after the sun sets, as sunlight can break down chlorine.